|
~Daniel "Tiny" Fric~
SHINER: Daniel Martin “Tiny” Fric, 74, passed away at his home on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on August 26, 1951, in Shiner to Mike and Albina (Vincik) Fric. Daniel graduated from St. Paul High School in 1969. He went on to work as a welder for Brown & Root before beginning a long career with LCRA in 1986, where he worked as a mechanic and welder for nearly 23 years until his retirement in 2009. Even after retiring, he stayed active, doing dozer work until his health no longer allowed. Daniel was a member of the Knights of Columbus and gave back to his community as a Little League coach. He had a deep love for baseball and spent years playing men’s softball. Even playing on the softball team sponsored by LCRA with his daughter Rebecca playing catcher. He also enjoyed deer hunting, especially the time spent at the lease with his son, DJ. Known for his competitive spirit, he loved playing dominoes and could still beat just about anyone—even after suffering strokes. He had a passion for BBQ cook-offs, where he was not only known for his cooking but also for entertaining skits, including his unforgettable “fighting the invisible man,” always aiming to win over the judges. He cherished trips to the movie theater with his daughter Kristy, who shared his love for films. Above all, Daniel loved family gatherings—cooking, telling jokes, drinking cold Shiners, and creating lasting memories with those he loved. His laugh was one that no one who heard it will ever forget. On March 9, 1973, he married the love of his life, Vickie Lynn Smith, at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church in Shiner. Together they built a life and family over 53 years of marriage. Daniel was a devoted husband, father, grand & great grandfather who took great pride in his family. He faced many health challenges over the years, including two strokes beginning in 2014, a cancer diagnosis, and ongoing infections. Through it all, he fought with determination and never let his struggles define him. His wife, Vickie, stood faithfully by his side, caring for him with love and devotion until his final breath. Daniel is survived by his wife of 53 years, Vickie Smith Fric; daughters, Rebecca Carroll (Carl) and Kristy Mayfield (William Mayfield Jr.); son, Daniel “DJ” Fric Jr. (Natalie); sister, Theresa Kocian; 11 grandchildren, Clayton and Garrett Fric; Adrian, Kalynn, and Jordan King; Aaron, Marcia, Trey, and Destinie Mayfield; and Falynn and Grayson Carroll; and one great-grandchild, Halsey Gray. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mike and Albina Fric, great-granddaughter, Serenity Nevaeh Gray; sisters, Lillian and Patricia Fric and brother, Michael Fric (passed April 19th, 2026 The family finds comfort in knowing he is now free from pain and suffering, though he will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Visitation will be held at 2:00 p.m. with a Memorial Service at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials to be made to The Shiner Little League or the Knights of Columbus of Shiner. Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home, 361-293-5656.
|